POLICE are appealing for help to find two thugs who tormented a pensioner.

The 84-year-old woman was at home in Skippers Lane, Normanby, on Friday, when the youths forced their way into her house.

"Threatening her with a knife, they dragged her around her house demanding money," said a Cleveland Police spokeswoman.

"Once they finally found cash the youths fastened the lady to a chair and left."

Detective Superintendent Ian Garrett, the man leading the hunt for the pair, said: "This was a cowardly and despicable attack on a vulnerable, elderly lady.

"The people responsible cannot be proud of themselves, but they may well have talked to others about it. Anyone who knows anything should contact the police without delay."

Both youths were aged about 17 and slim. One was about 5ft 6in and has a mark on the right hand side of his face. His accomplice was 5ft 10in.